20 Best Things To Do in Mijas Pueblo (With Local Tips!)
Mijas Pueblo is one of the prettiest villages in Malaga. Despite its size, there are many interesting things to do in Mijas Pueblo – from learning about its culture and wandering through typical Andalusian white-painted streets to tasting the local food.
It is, without a doubt, one of my favourite towns in Malaga. I keep coming back with my family, as we live nearby, and I’m pretty sure you’ll want to go back too.
No matter where you’re staying on the Costa del Sol, it’s worth taking a day trip to Mijas Pueblo, as it offers a different experience from coastal towns like Benalmadena and Fuengirola.
It’s also important to mention the difference between Mijas Costa and Mijas Pueblo. Mijas is divided into two parts: the coastal town, called Mijas Costa, and the mountainside village, called Mijas Pueblo, which I’m referring to in this post.
Get ready to discover the best things to do in Mijas Pueblo, where to eat, where to stay and local tips to help you make the most of your day in this charming town.
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20 Things to do in Mijas Pueblo
1. Visit Ermita de la Virgen de la Peña
La Ermita de la Virgen de la Peña is next to the Compás viewpoint, and it’s a cave-like shrine where Virgen de la Peña (the Virgin of Peña), the patron of Mijas, is situated. There are many legends behind this shrine.
Among the many legends, most people believe that two shepherds were guided by a dove and discovered the Virgin in 1586.
Entry to this shrine is free, although donations are always welcome, so it’s worth checking out this place regardless of your religious interests.
2. Admire the views
Its strategic high position makes Mijas an incredible town where you can admire the mountain and sea views. It’s the best place to get panoramic views of the western part of Costa del Sol.
It doesn’t have just one viewpoint but several, offering different angles on the town and coast. Some of the most popular viewpoints include Mirador del Paseo de la Muralla and Mirador Hermanos Núñez Andréu.
If you love photography, allow yourself some time to take photos at different points across the town. Mijas Pueblo is so picturesque! I especially love visiting the viewpoints at sunset. The colours of the sea and sky are beautiful.
3. Wander the streets of Mijas
One of the best things to do in Mijas Pueblo is wander its streets.
As you climb upstairs, get lost in the town and discover pretty whitewashed streets decorated with flower pots, picturesque hidden corners and even tiled stairs that lead to Mijas.
In the summer months, Mijas gets busy, so if you want to experience a quieter atmosphere, either go another time of the year or early so you can have the place to yourself.
4. Have a drink at La Boveda del Flamenco
Located in La Constitución Square, La Boveda del Flamenco is a meeting point for locals and travellers.
They have lovely tables set up outside, next to a wall lined with blue flower pots filled with different plants and pink flowers.
It’s a fantastic place to take a break from sightseeing and spend some time having a few tapas and a glass or two of sangria with friends or a loved one. They also serve delicious breakfasts; you need to try their pan con tomate (toast with tomato and olive oil).
5. Go to the miniaturas museum (Mijas wagon)
One of the quirkiest attractions in Mijas Pueblo is Carromato de Mijas (Mijas Wagon), home to some interesting tiny objects.
This museum was opened in 1972 and continues to be popular because the panels outside the museum and the shape spark curiosity in travellers.
The museum collection has approximately 360 small objects, which range from a ballet doll attached to a toothpick to the last dinner of Leonardo da Vinci in rice grain. I absolutely loved the attention to detail of many of these objects; it’s very impressive.
6. Visit CAC Mijas (Centro de Arte Contemporáneo)
CAC Mijas, which stands for Centro de Arte Contemporáneo, is an important art gallery in the province of Malaga.
If you love Pablo Picasso’s work, this place must be on your Mijas itinerary. The art gallery is home to over 70 permanent works by Picasso.
In addition to these works from this reputable artist born in Malaga, there are other paintings by Salvador Dalí and Georges Braque, among other important painters.
CAC Mijas also hosts temporary exhibitions showcasing works by artists who may have influenced Picasso and Dalí.
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7. Go to Iglesia San Sebastián
Iglesia de San Sebastián is in the buzzing town centre of Mijas. It’s a 17th-century church characterised by its beautiful white facade. It’s well-preserved and has gone through a few refurbishments over the years.
You’ll find a few religious statues inside the church, such as Virgen del Rosario and San Juan. Although it isn’t big, it’s worth checking out. The entry is free, and it’s open every day.
8. Explore Parque La Muralla
Parque de la Muralla is a lovely park with gardens that offer different views of Mijas and its surroundings. It’s a tranquil space where you can sit down, take amazing photos and admire the views with a loved one.
It’s likely you’ll see friendly stray cats wandering around the garden, waiting for you to stroke and feed them.
9. Have lunch at Tomillo Limón
There are a few good tapas bars and restaurants in Mijas, and the truth is that many of them have high prices compared to other small towns in Malaga.
If you’re looking for a restaurant that serves traditional dishes as well as some international options, Tomillo Limón is an excellent choice. It’s one of the best places to eat in Mijas Pueblo!
They have indoor and outdoor seating and an extensive menu that offers anything from the traditional gazpacho (cold tomato soup) and gambas al pil pil (spicy prawns) to hot dogs.
I had two tapas on my last visit: Iberico ham and hard-boiled egg croquetas and torta de Inés (olive oil cake) topped with roasted peppers, pickled onions, tuna and homemade mayonnaise.
Both were incredibly delicious, and I didn’t even have dessert because the portions were about right.
Seating outside is perfect on a sunny day. You can enjoy good food while people-watching and soaking up the atmosphere.
10. Take a picture with the donkey statue
Next to the Mijas tourist office, which is worth checking out before your trip, you’ll find this bronze donkey sculpture, a popular spot for photos.
The sculpture was built to pay tribute to the donkey, the characteristic animal from Mijas. Donkeys have been helping humans transport heavy objects and have been this town’s primary means of transport for many years.
Apart from taking a picture with the donkey monument, spend some time admiring the beautiful views from the viewpoint next to it. You can enjoy views of the town and mountains.
11. Discover quotes across Mijas
Wandering through Mijas Pueblo is an experience because it’s full of beautiful corners and small details you’ll only spot if you pay attention to the surroundings.
Across the historic centre of Mijas, you can find quotes from Spanish artists, like the quote in the picture above.
12. Buy beautiful tiled souvenirs
Who doesn’t love bringing something home from their trip? It’s always nice to buy an item that reminds you of a fantastic day trip or holiday.
If you’re looking for something traditional of Mijas, then ceramics it is! From plant pots and dishes to tiled plaques and jars.
There are numerous independent shops in Mijas Pueblo where you can buy typical souvenirs. However, one of my favourite shops is the one near Ermita de la Virgen de la Peña.
13. Find the Hermosas escaleras
When it comes to picturesque spots in Mijas, there are so many beautiful streets and corners, and these stairs are one of those.
They’re a bit hidden, so make sure to check out the address below to take a picture of hermosas escaleras.
The exact address is Plaza Virgen de la Peña, 7, 29650 Mijas, Málaga.
14. Visit Museo Historico-Etnologico
If you want to immerse yourself in the history of Mijas Pueblo, Museo Histórico-Etnológico needs to be on your list.
This museum, located in the former town hall, was opened in 1995 and shows you what life was like in the town.
You can see fishing instruments, an olive oil windmill, a winery, and a traditional kitchen, among other objects. In addition, you can learn about the local pottery and find a replica of the bedroom of Manuel Cortés Quero, a popular wanted character in the town that was hidden for 30 years before he was discovered.
The museum isn’t very big, but you’ll leave this place with a good understanding of what rural Mijas was.
15. Learn about chocolate at Mayan Monkey Mijas
If you love chocolate, you must add the Mayan Monkey Mijas chocolate factory to your Mijas itinerary.
I visited it with my partner, who loves chocolate, and it was such a fantastic activity! We had a tour of the factory, in which we learned about how they make sustainable chocolate and had a tasting.
It’s a great thing to do in Mijas with children, but it’s also perfect for anyone who is crazy about chocolate.
16. Go on a hiking trail
Surrounded by mountains and incredible nature, it’s no wonder that Mijas has scenic hiking trails. Sierra de Mijas is one of the greenest areas in Costa del Sol, so you’re spoilt for nature.
There are plenty of walking routes in Mijas, so whether you’re a beginner or a pro at hiking, you’ll find the best hiking trail.
The easiest hiking trail is Ruta Cantera del Barrio, which takes 1 hour to complete, whereas the most difficult trail is Ruta Pico de Mijas, which takes approximately 5 hours.
If you want more information about these routes, head to the Mijas Tourism Centre or check AllTrails.
17. Climb up Antigua torre
One that can be easily missed during your trip to Mijas is checking out the Antigua Torre, the only surviving tower of a former fortress.
You can climb up to the top and enjoy some panoramic views of the town and wander its surroundings, where you’ll come across a playground and a garden space that has tiled plaques that tell the love story of Doña Juana de Carlos and Estevan Peres, two neighbours of Mijas in the 16th century.
Although these are in Spanish, they also have illustrations that help you understand the story.
18. Go on a tuk-tuk tour
Walking in Mijas Pueblo is my top choice for exploring all the corners of this beautiful town, but you can also go on a tuk-tuk tour. I’d rather go on this tour than go on a donkey ride (and I’ll tell you more below).
They have three tours: the basic (25 minutes), the recommended (45 minutes) or the complete tour, which takes you to San Antón’s hermitage.
The good thing about these tours is that you get some insights about the town, and of course, you get to rest your legs.
If you want to go on a tuk-tuk tour, you’ll find it opposite the miniature museum.
19. Watch the sunset
If you love catching sunsets, Mijas is one of the most magical places in the province of Malaga to enjoy the warm colours of the sunset, with the Mediterranean Sea and the mountains in the background.
The best viewpoint in Mijas is the viewpoint next to Ermita de la Virgen de la Peña, and it offers some of the best views in Malaga.
20. Go on a day trip to Fuengirola
Mijas Pueblo is only a 15 minute drive from Fuengirola, so you can actually see both towns in a day, or if you’re staying in Mijas, go on a day trip to Fuengirola.
There are many things to do in Fuengirola, although the most exciting activities involve water.
If you visit in summer, hitting the beach is a must. The town has beautiful and accessible beaches which are perfect for all ages. You’ll love Fuengirola beaches whether you want to spend the day sunbathing, eating some traditional espetos (sardine skewers) or going on a pedalo boat.
Other activities to do in Fuengirola besides the beach are visiting Castillo de Sohail (Fuengirola Castle), seeing the Mosque and visiting the flea market twice weekly in the fairground.
Where to stay in Mijas Pueblo
Mijas Pueblo doesn’t have many big hotels, but locals rent boutique hotels and independent holiday homes, which is one reason the town keeps its charm. The same happens with other small towns in Malaga.
These are some fantastic places to stay in Mijas Pueblo.
🛏️ OPUNTIA Hotel – Located in the centre of the town, it offers modern and simple rooms and suites that have been carefully decorated in detail. Check prices and availability.
🛏️ Mijas Residence – If you’re looking for a place to stay in Mijas with your family or friends, it’s a fantastic option. These apartments are located at the bottom of the town and offer a more private experience since they aren’t in the middle of Mijas Pueblo. Check prices and availability.
How to get to Mijas Pueblo
I’ve written a complete guide on how to get from Malaga to Mijas; you’ll find all the different options in there. In summary, you can either take the bus, drive to Mijas or even book a day trip to the town.
Map of Mijas Pueblo
Click on the map below to open it in Google Maps. You can access directions to each of the locations mentioned in this article.
A Local’s Tips for Visiting Mijas Pueblo
- Mijas is well-known for its donkey rides. However, this is an activity I don’t recommend doing. If you love animals, please be a responsible traveller and don’t do it for the welfare of these donkeys. They don’t look happy at all and suffer from all the heavy weight put on them.
- Don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes, such as trainers, on your trip to Mijas. The town isn’t as hilly as towns like Frigiliana, but you’ll regret walking in shoes with heels because of the cobblestone streets and stairs to access some streets.
- Take a light jacket with you if visiting Mijas any other time than summer. Due to its high location, it’s sometimes windy and cooler than the coastal towns.
- Visit another destination or schedule other activities on the same day as your trip to Mijas Pueblo. You don’t need more than a day to see it all. A good idea is to do Mijas Pueblo and Fuengirola or Benalmadena.
- Try almendras garrapiñadas. These are almonds cooked with caramel. They’re sweet and delicious. One of the places to try these traditional almonds is the stall located near Ermita de la Virgen.
- Avoid visiting Mijas in the summer. This is one of the busiest times, and it gets very warm, making exploring difficult most of the day.
Frequently asked questions about visiting Mijas Pueblo
Is Mijas Pueblo worth visiting?
Yes, Mijas Pueblo is worth visiting for its beautiful whitewashed streets lined with plant pots, interesting museums, breathtaking mountains, and Mediterranean Sea views. It’s a great trip from Malaga and many other parts of the Costa del Sol.
Can you see Mijas Pueblo in a day?
Yes, it’s completely possible! Although Mijas Pueblo has many activities to do while being a small town, you can do all of them in a day.
Conclusion on exploring Mijas Pueblo
Mijas Village is a hundred per cent worth visiting – its pretty whitewashed streets, its lovely atmosphere, and its incredible views will make you fall in love with this place.
There are many things to see in Mijas Pueblo, and this small village won’t disappoint you at all! Add it to your Costa del Sol itinerary or Andalusian road trip.
Enjoy your holidays in Mijas Pueblo!
Cristina x
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Wow! You have given so much excellent information, Christina. Your descriptions are very clear and informative. You have really put a lot of effort into your site, and it is extremely helpful for anyone visiting Andalucia.
Thank you!